Queen Victoria

Although it's the smallest ship in the Cunard Cruises fleet, the MS Queen Victoria is still an impressive vessel that offers an extravagant and relaxing atmosphere for all of its passengers.

Similar to a Vista class craft, the Queen Victoria is not a true ocean liner, but it has been constructed with heavier plating on the bow and a high freeboard, making it perfectly capable of traversing the Atlantic.

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It also has a classic ocean liner appearance - its black hull and bright red funnel, not to mention its opulent interior, are symbols of Cunard's 150-year heritage and reminiscent of the golden days of cruise travel.

The Queen Victoria serves a wide variety of destinations around the world, so wherever you wish to travel, it's likely that you'll be able to find a cruise on this vessel.

Common routes include the Mediterranean and the Baltic, while the liner regularly departs on journeys further afield. Transatlantic crossings to New York, Florida and the Caribbean are available, as well as journeys through the Panama Canal to Hawaii and the west coast of Mexico and Central America.

In addition, around-the-world voyages are also scheduled for the vessel. Passengers can opt for the full 105-night journey, or join the ship for a portion of the tour.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 2,172
Year entered service: 2007
Beam (ship width): 105.9 feet
Draught (ship depth): 26.2 feet
Length: 964.5 feet
Tonnage: 90,000
Crew: 1,001
Maximum speed: 23.7 knots
Number of passenger decks: 12
Number of lifts: 12
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 1,007

Food, cuisine and dining

There are three main dining rooms on the Queen Victoria and passengers are assigned to these, depending on the class of ticket that they have purchased.

The most exclusive restaurants are the Queens Grill and the Princess Grill. These are intimate spaces where guests can enjoy formal dining, amazing personal service and delicious gourmet cuisine.

Most passengers will enjoy their meals in the large Britannia dining room. This is a two-tiered space and levels are connected by a stunning staircase. There are two dinner services every night and the fare ranges from traditional cruise favourites to meals with regional themes.

If you're looking for an alternative dining option, Todd English is a specialty restaurant serving a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Other options include:
• Lido Buffet
• Cafe Carinthia
• Golden Lion Pub
• The Courtyard

A formal afternoon tea is offered every day in the Queens Room and the Grills Lounge, with white-gloved waiters serving miniature sandwiches and pastries. Meanwhile, room service is available at all hours.

On-board entertainment and activities

The Queen Victoria offers plenty of activities to keep passengers busy and, even on the longest journeys, it's unlikely that you'll ever run out of things to do, no matter what your age or personal preferences.

Entertainment options include traditional cruise activities like bingo, karaoke, shuffleboard and art auctions, and the kids' club will keep younger cruisers occupied.

The large 830-seat Royal Court Theatre is a favourite venue and it offers various shows. Spanning three decks, it feels like a West End theatre and even has private boxes that can be reserved for a special treat.

In addition, the ship is home to one of the largest - and most beautiful - libraries at sea. It spans two levels and offers more than 6,000 titles.

The stained glass ceiling provides colourful light, while the mahogany shelving and glorious spiral staircase make the space feel tranquil and elegant. There are also a number of desks and comfortable chairs, giving you a quiet area to relax and enjoy your favourite tome.

And if you're looking for a place to enjoy a drink or two, the ship features a variety of pubs and lounges, as well as the Hemispheres nightclub.

Spas and fitness facilities

If you really want to relax on your cruise, then a trip to the Royal Spa is a must. This lavishly decorated area offers visitors sweeping ocean views and a host of spa therapies, beauty treatments and exercise facilities.

Whether you want to lounge in a steam room or sauna, indulge in an aromatherapy session or get the tension out of your muscles with a professional massage, you're sure to find just what you're looking for at this wonderful venue.

The workout room includes various cardio and resistance machines, while aerobics, Pilates and yoga classes are held on a regular basis. And if you want to get your heart pumping, there are swimming pools, sports courts, ping-pong tables and virtual golf located elsewhere on the vessel.

Cabins

With more than 1,000 staterooms, the Queen Victoria offers a wide range of accommodation options spanning three classes and 31 price ranges. This means that there's sure to be something to suit your particular requirements - whether you're looking for affordable cruise deals, or something rather magnificent.

The largest rooms are the four Grand Suites, which measure up to 2,131 square feet. They feature two bedrooms with walk-in closets, a large seating area and a dining room, as well as a private wrap-around balcony and a wet bar.

At the other end of the spectrum, you'll find the interior no-view rooms, which are simple in decor and amenities. These measure between 151 and 243 square feet.

No matter which accommodation option you choose, you'll be greeted with a glass of bubbly and every room includes a large flat-screen television and a private bathroom.